MAINE SUNDAY TELEGRAM • October 20, 2024
In recent years, a movement has gained strength among Maine conservation organizations to learn the true, complicated history of colonialism in this region, to grapple with conservation’s role in it, and to incorporate those lessons into our work. This has meant learning to listen to Wabanaki voices on the power of Indigenous-led conservation. From preserving biodiversity to addressing climate change, the best, most durable conservation outcomes are only possible when we have strong relationships with people and communities. Indigenous communities have the longest connection to the lands and waters where we live and work. ~ Betsy Cook, Trust for Public Land; Kate Dempsey, The Nature Conservancy in Maine; Kate Stookey, Maine Coast Heritage Trust